Whole Blood Elements

Test Indications:

Measurement of essential and toxic elements including lead, cadmium and uranium

Whole blood element analysis is a diagnostic method that assists in determining deficiencies, excesses and imbalances of essential elements as well as recent or ongoing exposure to specific toxic elements.

Test Summary:

Measures all components of the red blood cell

Whole Blood Examination

Whole blood element analysis is a diagnostic method that assists in determining deficiencies, excesses and imbalances of essential elements as well as recent or ongoing exposure to specific toxic elements. Whole blood analysis measures total element levels that circulate extracellularly (serum/plasma) as well as intracellularly (function within blood cells). Therefore, additional testing of blood fractions or other tissues may be necessary for differential diagnosis of specific imbalances, or to assess specific dysfunctions of assimilation, transport, retention or excretion of elements.

Whole blood analysis is an excellent single test for measuring the levels of both extracellular and intracellular elements. Extracellular elements function or are transported in serum/plasma. Intracellular elements are those that have specific functions within circulating blood cells. Assessment of element levels in whole blood is a valuable tool for identification of dietary adequacy, gastrointestinal, renal and endocrine functions, and excess or deficiency conditions.